The Houston Astros may have finally found leverage in a trade market that’s been frustratingly quiet.
Houston Astros infielder Isaac Paredes (15) works | Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
For weeks, All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes has felt like a player without a clear destination. Outside of speculative three-team scenarios, viable trade partners appeared scarce. Yet as spring training unfolds, circumstances in Baltimore may have quietly shifted the landscape.
And the Astros are watching.
Baltimore’s infield depth has suddenly been tested. Jackson Holliday is recovering from hand surgery and isn’t expected back until shortly after Opening Day. Jordan Westburg is dealing with a partially torn UCL and attempting to avoid surgery through platelet-rich plasma treatments.
Neither situation is catastrophic — yet. But both introduce uncertainty.
The Orioles do have internal options. Blaze Alexander and Jeremiah Jackson can help at second base. Top prospect Coby Mayo is expected to receive an opportunity at third. On paper, that should buy Baltimore time.
But contenders don’t like relying on hope in April.
If Mayo struggles or Westburg’s elbow worsens, Baltimore could be forced into the trade market sooner than expected. That’s where Isaac Paredes becomes relevant.
Paredes remains a productive, controllable infielder with All-Star credentials. For a team needing stability at third base, he represents a proven solution rather than a developmental gamble.
The intrigue doesn’t stop there.
Houston’s primary offseason objective has been adding a left-handed hitting outfielder. Free agency failed to deliver a clean solution. The Astros have searched, but the market hasn’t cooperated.
A conversation with Baltimore could address both teams’ needs.
Colton Cowser stands out as a potential fit. The 25-year-old left-handed hitter is entering a pivotal season with the Orioles but has yet to fully secure an everyday role. His bat-to-ball skills and on-base potential would give Houston much-needed balance in an outfield that still leans right-handed.
Slotting Cowser into right field would provide flexibility — especially if the Astros find a trade partner for Jake Meyers.
From Houston’s perspective, a Paredes-for-Cowser framework might be the cleanest solution currently available. It aligns roster needs and competitive timelines.
The question is urgency.
Baltimore isn’t in crisis mode. If Mayo performs and Westburg avoids surgery, the Orioles can stand pat. But if cracks appear early, the Astros could find themselves holding the most attractive short-term fix on the market.
For general manager Dana Brown, patience has defined much of this offseason. Critics argue Houston waited too long to act in other areas. Now, that restraint could either look strategic — or costly.
If Baltimore blinks, the Astros may finally convert surplus into need.
If not, Houston may be reminded again how thin the margin is between bold planning and missed opportunity.
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